The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has imposed a **two-year ban** on **Harry Brook** from participating in the **Indian Premier League (IPL)** following his withdrawal from the 2025 season. This decision, made under the BCCI’s newly introduced withdrawal policy, has sparked widespread discussion among cricket enthusiasts.
Brook, who was acquired by the **Delhi Capitals (DC)** for INR 6.25 crore during the IPL 2025 auction, attributed his withdrawal to commitments with the England national team. However, this marked his second consecutive year of pulling out of the IPL, prompting the BCCI to enforce its strict policy. According to the rule, players who withdraw without a valid reason such as injury or family emergencies face an automatic two-year ban from future IPL auctions and participation. As a result, Brook will be ineligible for IPL 2026 and IPL 2027.
BCCI’s Strict Withdrawal Policy and Its Impact
Introduced ahead of the 2025 IPL auction, the BCCI’s stringent withdrawal policy aims to protect franchises from last-minute disruptions caused by player pullouts. In Brook’s case, his withdrawal left Delhi Capitals in a challenging position, as they had signed him to strengthen their middle order following the absence of **Rishabh Pant**. Brook’s exit forced Delhi to scramble for a replacement just days before the tournament began, creating both strategic and financial setbacks. The INR 6.25 crore allocated for Brook was freed up, but the franchise now faces the task of finding a suitable replacement in the auction.
Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid Support BCCI’s Decision
Brook’s England teammates **Moeen Ali** and **Adil Rashid** have publicly backed the BCCI’s decision, stressing the importance of players honoring their commitments. Moeen, who will represent the **Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)** in IPL 2025, shared his views on the *Beard Before Cricket* podcast, stating that the ban was justified given the disruption caused by Brook’s withdrawal. He pointed out that some players have previously pulled out of the IPL only to return later for better financial offers, which unfairly impacts franchises.
“It’s not harsh. I kind of agree with it, in a way, because a lot of people have done this before, and they end up coming back and getting a better financial package. It messes things up for teams when a player suddenly pulls out, and it’s unfair to franchises who invest heavily in certain players,” Moeen said.
Rashid echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that the rule was clear prior to the auction and Brook was fully aware of the consequences of withdrawing. He highlighted the IPL’s significance as a tournament and stressed that such withdrawals not only hurt the team but also damage the league’s reputation. Both players agreed that the policy is necessary to ensure fairness and accountability among cricketers participating in franchise leagues.
“This rule was already in place before the auction. Every player who puts their name in the IPL auction is aware that if they pull out, they will be banned for two years. So, Brook knew the consequences beforehand. I don’t think it’s harsh—it’s just the way the system works,” Rashid said.
